A recent study showed that giving rats low doses over a long period of time Cannabis could reverse Brain aging and improve cognitive abilities. Researchers from the University Hospital Bonn and University of Bonn in Germany, as well as Hebrew University of JerusalemI believe this could lead to new results anti aging Treatment for the human brain.
The study, published in 'ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science', found that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active ingredient in cannabis, affects the brain by restoring cognitive functions and stimulating the formation of new synapses, connections between nerve cells. The secret lies in the manipulation of the protein switch mTOR (Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin), which is a key factor in regulating metabolism and cognitive performance.
“Anti-aging strategies based on a reduction of mTOR activity may not only be ineffective, but also counterproductive against brain aging. In our current work, we have now found a strategy to solve this dilemma,” said Professor Dr. Andreas Zimmer, Director of the Institute of Molecular Psychiatry at UKB.
In their earlier research, the team had shown that THC improved cognitive abilities in aged mice. This new study delved deeper, examining how THC affects mTOR signaling and the metabolome, which includes all the metabolic properties of a cell. The results were surprising. In the brain, THC increased mTOR activity, boosting energy production and formation Synaptic ProteinsWhich improves cognition.
However, in other parts of the body, such as adipose tissue, the researchers observed a decrease in mTOR activity and metabolism that is similar to the effects of a low-calorie diet or intense physical exercise. Dr. Andras Bilkei-Gorzo said: “Our study suggests that the dual effect on mTOR activity and metabolism could be the basis for an effective anti-aging and cognition-enhancing drug.”
The study, published in 'ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science', found that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active ingredient in cannabis, affects the brain by restoring cognitive functions and stimulating the formation of new synapses, connections between nerve cells. The secret lies in the manipulation of the protein switch mTOR (Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin), which is a key factor in regulating metabolism and cognitive performance.
“Anti-aging strategies based on a reduction of mTOR activity may not only be ineffective, but also counterproductive against brain aging. In our current work, we have now found a strategy to solve this dilemma,” said Professor Dr. Andreas Zimmer, Director of the Institute of Molecular Psychiatry at UKB.
In their earlier research, the team had shown that THC improved cognitive abilities in aged mice. This new study delved deeper, examining how THC affects mTOR signaling and the metabolome, which includes all the metabolic properties of a cell. The results were surprising. In the brain, THC increased mTOR activity, boosting energy production and formation Synaptic ProteinsWhich improves cognition.
However, in other parts of the body, such as adipose tissue, the researchers observed a decrease in mTOR activity and metabolism that is similar to the effects of a low-calorie diet or intense physical exercise. Dr. Andras Bilkei-Gorzo said: “Our study suggests that the dual effect on mTOR activity and metabolism could be the basis for an effective anti-aging and cognition-enhancing drug.”